Pinball Pandemonium: OC Belles & Chimes

June 17, 2024, was a night of pinball magic as the OC Belles & Chimes gathered for their second tournament of the season. Thirteen fierce competitors faced off at Captain’s Arcade Showroom in Anaheim, California, battling it out across six games in a thrilling 1 hour and 54-minute showdown. With clear skies and a comfortable 69°F temperature, the stage was perfectly set for a night of flippers and bumpers.

Stepping into the Showroom

Captain’s Arcade Showroom, located at 4411 East La Palma Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92807, is a veritable paradise for pinball enthusiasts. This spacious venue, known for its vast collection of arcade machines, offered an ideal setting for the tournament. The vibe was electric, filled with the nostalgic sounds of pinball machines and the excitement of players ready to compete. With a reputation for maintaining machines in pristine condition, Captain’s Arcade Showroom once again proved to be a top-notch choice for hosting pinball tournaments.

A Fab Performance on The Beatles

One of the tournament’s standout moments happened in Round 1 on Stern’s The Beatles, a pinball machine that brings the Fab Four’s magic to life. Sheri Howell, ranked 3611 in the IFPA, claimed the top spot with her impressive performance. Mayumi Mae, ranked 594, secured second place, showing her prowess despite tough competition. CC Castaneda, the event organizer from Anaheim, came in third, and Carina Munoz, a newcomer to the IFPA rankings, rounded out the group in fourth place.

Pinball Marvels on Display

The tournament featured an impressive array of 62 pinball machines, including some real gems. Here’s a closer look at five of them:

• Attack from Mars by Bally (January 1995): A fan favorite, this machine combines humor with high-energy gameplay. The goal is to defend Earth from Martian invaders, complete with flying saucers and interactive mini-games.
• Torpedo Alley by Data East (January 1988): This game stands out with its naval warfare theme. Players navigate through submarine missions, with exciting multi-ball modes and a captivating soundtrack.
• Jurassic Park (LE) by Stern (September 2019): With stunning visuals and dynamic gameplay, this machine takes players on a dinosaur-filled adventure. It features intricate playfield toys and challenging missions, making it a must-play.
• Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming (March 2023): Paying homage to the classic film, this machine offers a mix of iconic quotes and scenes. The gameplay is engaging, with various modes that keep players on their toes.
• Elton John by Jersey Jack Pinball (October 2023): A tribute to the legendary musician, this machine dazzles with its colorful playfield and eclectic soundtrack. The gameplay is both fun and challenging, perfectly capturing Elton John’s flamboyant style.

Celebrating the Champions

The tournament culminated in an exhilarating final game on Pulp Fiction (SE). Here are the top four winners:

1. Lisa Buhrmester – From California, ranked 2107 with 147 IFPA events under her belt, Lisa’s victory was well-deserved.
2. Nicole Thornhill – Ranked 1995 with 116 events, Nicole’s consistent performance earned her the second spot.
3. Mayumi Mae – Returning to the podium, Mayumi’s third-place finish is a testament to her skill and determination.
4. Laura Stoddard – Also from California and ranked 2456, Laura’s extensive experience (346 events) shone through.

Top 10 IFPA California Pinball Standings

Wrapping Up the Fun

A huge thank you to CC Castaneda for organizing this fantastic event and to Captain’s Arcade Showroom for hosting us in such a superb venue. We hope everyone had a great time, especially our new players like Carina Munoz who joined in on the fun. Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from the pinball world!